Wedding Checklist

Organization is important during this busy time. Be sure to mark your calendar six months in advance to begin shopping for your wedding rings.

Here are some more ideas for your wedding checklist:

12 Months or More Ahead

	Select wedding date. (Select backup dates in case sites already booked).
	Discuss budget and any financial support.
	Set budget and number of guests to be invited.
	Decide type of wedding: informal or formal.
	Choose and secure the ceremony & reception location.
	Choose and book officiant.

8-12 Months Ahead

	Arrange for families to meet if they have not already.
	Announce engagement in local newspapers.
	Order gown and accessories: veil, lingerie, gloves, and shoes.
	Compile guest list from both the bride and groom's families.
	Choose and notify attendants.
	Select and order attendants' gowns.
	Select caterer.
	Select photographer and videographer.
	Select florist.
	Select and order wedding cake and cake top.
	Select and register bridal registry items.
	Select music for ceremony and reception.
	Discuss honeymoon plans.

6-8 Months Ahead

	Plan details with florist.
	Buy wedding rings.
	Order invitations, announcements, personal stationery, and thank-you notes.
	Reserve limousine transportations for the bridal party.
	Reserve or arrange transportation to and from the ceremony and reception for out-of-town guests.
	Reserve rental equipment: tables, chairs, and tents.
	Reserve accommodations for out-of-town- guests.
	Hire stylists for wedding hair and makeup.
	Hire a coordinator to orchestrate the ceremony and reception, if applicable.

4-6 Months Ahead

	Book a calligrapher.
	Set appointment for blood test. (The requirement varies from state to state.)
	Book room for wedding night.
	Choose and order favors.

2-4 Months Ahead

	Address wedding invitations.
	Begin shopping for trousseau.
	Choose groom's and attendants' gifts.
	Confirm delivery dates for all dresses.
	Finalize details of menu with caterer.
	Discuss ceremony with officiant.
	Choose readings and confirm vows for ceremony.
	Schedule the rehearsal.
	Confirm rehearsal dinner arrangements.

1-2 Months Ahead

	Send announcements to newspapers.
	Have final dress fitting.
	Pick up wedding rings.
	Buy guest book, pen, toasting glasses, unity candles, garter, cake knife and server, flower girl's basket, and ring bearer's pillow.
	Print wedding programs.
	Mail invitations.
	Practice hairstyle with veil, if doing your own hair for wedding.
	Set a date with your fiancé to get the marriage license.
	Create wedding day timeline. Give copy to necessary vendors and onsite coordinator.
	Remind your bridesmaids of final gown fittings.
	Plan bridesmaids' party.
	Pick up gown or have it delivered.
	Assign friends or family to assist with corsages, boutonniere, guest book, gift table, and cake cutting.
	Send request list to photographer, videographer, and musicians.
	Schedule appointment for manicure and pedicure.
	Confirm time and date of wedding rehearsal with wedding party.
	Review reception seating plans and prepare place cards, if necessary.

1-2 Weeks Ahead

	Have final conversation with caterer, florist, baker, photographer, musicians, and videographer. Give timeline to all.
	Give final count to reception facility and caterer.
	Host and/or attend bridesmaids' luncheon.
	Pack for honeymoon.
	Confirm responsibilities assigned to family and friends.
	Finalize seating chart.
	Confirm final transportation times.

1 Day Ahead

	Rehearsal and rehearsal dinner.
	Present attendant gifts to wedding party at the rehearsal dinner.
	Find a special time alone with groom. Present your wedding gifts.
	Get ready to enjoy the best day of your life!